Brushing and flossing your teeth daily can go a long way in keeping your teeth clean and healthy, but these aren’t the only steps you and your family should take. Doing these alone may not be enough to protect you from tooth decay and gum disease. This is why dental experts recommend complimenting brushing and flossing with a healthy diet.
Boosting your oral health starts with the foods you introduce to your mouth and teeth. A well-balanced diet not only maintains your general well-being, but it also provides vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients vital for healthy teeth and gums. What constitutes a diet that provides nourishment to your oral health?
Calcium-Rich Foods
Calcium is essential in strengthening your teeth, while also providing additional protection against decay. Calcium-rich foods like cheese and other dairy products are beneficial in raising your mouth’s pH level, meaning fewer acids and a lesser chance of developing cavities. Cheese, in particular, contains certain compounds that stimulate saliva flow that dilutes the acid produced by bacteria.
Vitamin C
Bleeding gums not only tell you that you may have gingivitis, but it may also be a sign that you have vitamin C deficiency. Gingivitis, when left untreated, can lead to periodontitis, a more serious gum disease that may lead to tooth loss. Reduce your chances of developing gingivitis by making sure your body gets enough vitamin C by snacking on fresh fruits and vegetables.
Chewing Gum and Candy
According to family dental experts, as long as the candies and gum you chew on are made with xylitol, then you’re good to go. Unlike regular sugar, xylitol won’t break down in your mouth and form acids that causes tooth decay. Instead, xylitol stimulates your mouth’s saliva production, which helps wash away bacteria and food debris. Dentists recommend having three to five servings of xylitol every day for maximum cavity protection.
Using Nature’s Toothbrush
There’s a way you can clean your teeth and fill your stomach at the same time. Snack on some apples, also known as “nature’s toothbrush”, or vegetables like carrots and celery sticks instead of sugary snacks. These foods stimulate saliva production, and their hardness help scrape away plaque from the surface of your teeth.
To achieve optimal oral health, don’t forget to visit family dentistry practices like Falls Park Dentistry in Greenville, SC. Not only will your family have healthy teeth and gums, but they’ll also have more reasons to keep smiling.
Sources
3 Surprising Ways to Keep Your Teeth Healthy, Reader’s Digest
Surprisingly Simple Food Tips For Healthy Teeth, Colgate Oral Care Center